Rafa Benitez denies pressure has influenced performances

Chelsea manager Rafael Benitez has refuted claims that fan unrest at Stamford Bridge has adversely affected the team’s performances, according to Sky Sports.

The Blues have only managed one win out of six home matches following the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo.

Benitez, speaking ahead this weekend’s game against the Gunners in the Premier League, stated, “It was always tough, always difficult when I went to Stamford Bridge as Liverpool boss.”

“We will try to make it the same. It was [like that] for Aston Villa. After that everyone was scared,” he continued.

“The atmosphere doesn’t affect the players. We are professionals and we concentrate on our job. If we win, I’m sure they’ll be happy.

“It’s a question of the tactics of other teams, if they’re deep or not.

“Arsenal are a top team. They won’t be 11 men behind the ball on the edge of the box waiting. It’s a different kind of game.

“The only way to do your job properly is to carry on analysing the game, talking to people, and being up to date every day.”

Speaking on whether John Terry will start on the weekend– having sustained a knee ligament problem during a challenge on Luis Suarez – Benitez said, “He’s been training with the team and has been fine. We will decide on Saturday after the training session.”